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The Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) supports the recent introduction of law in Western Australia that streamlines the fundraising process for charities.
The law makes fundraising simpler and more consistent for charities by streamlining separate fundraising licensing requirements and enabling improved information sharing between WA and the ACNC.
The law also adopts the National Fundraising Principles. These principles – agreed to by Commonwealth, state and territory treasurers as part of a national framework – provide clarity for charities and donors around responsible fundraising practices.
‘We welcome any measure that removes unnecessary red tape,’ said ACNC Commissioner, Sue Woodward AM.
Ms Woodward said ACNC-registered charities will no longer need to apply for a separate Western Australian fundraising licence. Instead, charities can fundraise in WA by notifying Consumer Protection WA of their intention to do so.
‘Fundraising rules were designed for a different era – long before online giving became the norm,’ said Ms Woodward.
‘Today, even the smallest charities regularly raise money through digital campaigns that reach people across state or territory borders. The framework for fundraising simply hasn’t kept pace with how charities now operate, especially in a post-COVID world.’
‘The changes mean charities can spend less time on paperwork and more on delivering critical services to their communities.’
Patricia Blake, Commissioner for Consumer Protection WA and ex officio member of the ACNC Advisory Board, said the reforms will make fundraising simpler and more transparent for both charities and donors.
‘Charities will have a clearer, more consistent process, and donors can feel confident that fundraising activities meet national standards,’ said Ms Blake.
'By removing duplication and aligning with the National Fundraising Principles, we’re reducing complexity while maintaining strong protections for the public.’
The ACNC will continue to work collaboratively with WA authorities to support implementation and help charities understand the new requirements.